Lexus IS-F

Based on the rear-wheel-drive IS sedan, the IS-F is formed by cramming a 5.0-liter V-8 under the car's new, larger hood.

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Car companies have been trying to topple BMW's M3 from its performance perch for years. Now you can add Lexus to that list, with its 400-plus-bhp IS-F. Originally an internal code 20 years ago for the project that would become Lexus, specifically the LS luxury sedan, Lexus officials now say "The `F'...is a signature for a new high-performance marque conceived by an engineering team that dared to turn their dream of a Lexus-like-no-other into a reality."

Based on the rear-wheel-drive IS sedan, the IS-F is formed by cramming a 5.0-liter V-8 under the car's new, larger hood. The power is transferred to the road via "the world's first 8-speed direct paddle sport shift transmission," which can be operated by paddle shifters when used in manual mode. A sport-tuned suspension lowers the ride height by 1 in. while 19-in. BBS forged alloy wheels carry sticky performance rubber. The 14.2-in., 6-piston front brakes are by Brembo, as are the 13.6-in. rears. The none-too-subtle exterior changes include "F" badging, but also larger front fenders, deep side skirts, a larger rear spoiler and a set of stacked dual exhausts. Possibly the best news of all? The incredibly annoying VDIM stability control system has an "off" mode.